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Why Do Eating Disorders Develop in Adolescence? A Guide for Parents

Adolescence is a transformative period filled with growth, self-discovery, and change.

However, it’s also a time when many teens struggle with body image, self-esteem, and mental health challenges. For some, these struggles can lead to the development of eating disorders; serious conditions that affect both physical and emotional well-being. As a parent, you may be wondering: Why do eating disorders develop in adolescence, and what can I do to help my child?

At Adolescent Wellness Academy (AWA), located in Miami, Florida, we specialize in helping teens overcome eating disorders and build a healthy relationship with food and their bodies.

In this guide, we’ll explore the factors that contribute to eating disorders during adolescence, the role of puberty, and how AWA’s specialized treatment programs can support your teen’s recovery.

Why Do Eating Disorders Develop in Adolescence

Why Do Eating Disorders Develop in Adolescence?

Eating disorders often develop during adolescence due to a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors.

This period of life is marked by significant changes that can make teens particularly vulnerable to disordered eating behaviors.

1. Biological Factors

Puberty is a time of rapid physical and hormonal changes, which can significantly impact a teen’s body image.

Weight gain, growth spurts, and other changes can lead to body dissatisfaction, especially when combined with societal pressures to look a certain way.

  • Hormonal Changes: The surge of hormones during puberty can affect mood, self-esteem, and appetite regulation, making teens more susceptible to disordered eating.
  • Genetic Predisposition: Teens with a family history of eating disorders or mental health conditions are at a higher risk of developing similar issues.

2. Psychological Factors

Adolescence is also a time of emotional upheaval. Teens often struggle with low self-esteem, perfectionism, and anxiety, which can manifest in unhealthy eating behaviors.

  • Low Self-Esteem: Teens who feel inadequate or unhappy with their appearance may turn to restrictive eating, binge eating, or purging as a way to gain control.
  • Perfectionism: The pressure to excel academically, socially, or athletically can lead to unrealistic expectations and unhealthy coping mechanisms.
  • Anxiety and Depression: Many teens use food as a way to cope with emotional stress, leading to cycles of restriction, bingeing, or purging.

3. Social and Environmental Factors

The social and cultural environment plays a significant role in the development of eating disorders.

Teens are constantly exposed to messages about beauty, weight, and dieting, which can shape their attitudes toward food and their bodies.

  • Social Media: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok often promote unrealistic beauty standards, leading to unhealthy comparisons and body dissatisfaction.
  • Peer Pressure: Teens may feel pressured to conform to certain body types or eating habits to fit in with their peers.
  • Family Dynamics: A family’s focus on dieting, weight, or appearance can contribute to the development of eating disorders.
How Many Teens Have Eating Disorders

How Many Teens Have Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are more common than many parents realize. According to recent studies:

  • Approximately 1 in 5 teens struggle with disordered eating behaviors.
  • Eating disorders are the third most common chronic illness among adolescents.
  • Girls are more likely to develop eating disorders, but boys are also at risk, particularly those involved in sports or activities that emphasize weight or appearance.

These statistics highlight the importance of early intervention and treatment. Eating disorders can have serious physical and emotional consequences, but with the right support, recovery is possible.

What Role Does Puberty Play in Eating Disorders?

Puberty is a critical period for the development of eating disorders. The physical and emotional changes that occur during this time can create a perfect storm for disordered eating behaviors.

  • Body Changes: Teens may feel self-conscious about the physical changes that come with puberty, such as weight gain, breast development, or body hair growth.
  • Hormonal Fluctuations: Hormones can affect mood, appetite, and self-esteem, making teens more vulnerable to societal pressures and unhealthy coping mechanisms.
  • Increased Self-Awareness: Adolescence is a time of heightened self-awareness and comparison to peers. Teens may become overly focused on their appearance, leading to body dissatisfaction and disordered eating.

Signs of Eating Disorders in Teen

Recognizing the signs of an eating disorder early is crucial for effective treatment.

Here are some common signs to watch for:

  • Behavioral Signs:
    • Obsession with dieting, calories, or weight.
    • Avoidance of meals or eating in secret.
    • Excessive exercise or rigid routines around food.
  • Emotional Signs:
    • Increased anxiety around food or body image.
    • Mood swings, irritability, or withdrawal from social activities.
    • Expressions of guilt or shame about eating.
  • Physical Signs:
    • Rapid weight loss or fluctuations.
    • Fatigue, dizziness, or fainting.
    • Irregular menstrual cycles (in girls).

If you notice these signs in your teen, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible.

Signs of Eating Disorders in Teen

How Parents Can Help

As a parent, you play a crucial role in supporting your teen’s mental and physical health. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Open Communication:
    • Talk to your teen about their feelings and concerns without judgment. Let them know you’re there to support them.
  2. Promote a Healthy Body Image:
    • Encourage self-acceptance and focus on health rather than appearance. Avoid making comments about weight or dieting.
  3. Set a Positive Example:
    • Model healthy eating habits and a balanced approach to exercise.
  4. Seek Professional Help:
    • If you suspect an eating disorder, reach out to a mental health professional for guidance. Early intervention is key to recovery.

How Adolescent Wellness Academy Can Help

At AWA, we specialize in helping teens overcome eating disorders and build a healthy relationship with food and their bodies.

Our evidence-based treatment programs address the root causes of eating disorders, empowering teens to heal and thrive.

Our Programs Include:

Why Choose AWA?

  • Experienced therapists who understand the unique challenges of teens.
  • A safe, nurturing environment for healing and growth.
  • Convenient locations in Miami and Broward, Florida, make it easy for families to access care.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

If you’re concerned about your teen’s eating habits, you’re not alone. Adolescent Wellness Academy is here to help. Our compassionate team is dedicated to supporting teens and their families through every step of the recovery journey.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about our teen therapy programs. Together, we can help your teen thrive in a balanced and healthy life.

About the Author

Picture of Kimberly Carlesi

Kimberly Carlesi

Therapist

Kimberly, a dedicated therapist with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida International University, specializes in supporting individuals with eating disorders, trauma, and substance abuse. She creates a safe, nurturing environment for her client’s healing journeys, drawing from diverse therapeutic modalities like cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavior therapy. With a focus on trust and collaboration, Kimberly empowers clients through personalized interventions, fostering self-awareness and resilience.
Kimberly, a dedicated therapist with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida International University, specializes in supporting individuals with eating disorders, trauma, and substance abuse. She creates a safe, nurturing environment for her client’s healing journeys, drawing from diverse therapeutic modalities like cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavior therapy. With a focus on trust and collaboration, Kimberly empowers clients through personalized interventions, fostering self-awareness and resilience.
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Dr. Maria Angelica Mejia – Clinical Director (Davie)

Dr. Maria Angelica Mejia’s therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, resilience-building, and collaboration. As the Clinical Director for Adolescent Wellness Academy, she is dedicated to supporting high-risk teens in navigating trauma, emotional distress, and life’s challenges with a holistic and trauma-informed lens. Dr. Mejia specializes in working with adolescents facing issues such as suicide risk, self-harm, anxiety, depression, and family conflict, utilizing techniques like CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and strength-based therapy. With extensive experience in community mental health, private practice, and clinical supervision, Dr. Mejia has a proven track record of empowering teens to overcome obstacles and thrive. She holds a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy bringing a depth of knowledge and compassion to her leadership role.

Kimberly Geller

Kimberly Geller - Primary Therapist (Davie)

Kimberly is a compassionate and dedicated therapist with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida International University. Kimberly creates a nurturing and secure environment where clients can freely explore their emotions and embark on their journey toward healing and growth. Kimberly specializes in client-centered approaches that helps tailor her therapeutic methods to meet unique needs and goals. By fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship, she empowers clients to develop effective coping skills and achieve meaningful progress in their mental health journey. Kimberly ensures that each person she works with feels understood and valued throughout their therapeutic process.

Zainub Fatta - Therapist (Davie)

Zainub holds a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University and has extensive experience treating a wide range of mental health issues in adults, teens, and children. She specializes in treating diverse mental health struggles such as anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, anger management, etc. She also has a lot of experience treating addiction and substance abuse problems within various treatment centers. Zainub views mental health from a systemic perspective, emphasizing the significance of how one’s environment and childhood impacts them, which is why she also specializes in family therapy and couples therapy, when it comes to achieving holistic well-being. Passionate about empowering individuals to find their voice, she considers it a privilege to listen to their vulnerable stories and provide the support they need. Her therapeutic approach focuses on uplifting clients by building their confidence and challenging them to break old, negative patterns of thinking and behavior.

Krystine Garay

Krystine Garay – Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Krystine Garay is a licensed mental health counselor, marriage family therapist, and certified telehealth practitioner. Raised in Miami, Florida, and a member of the Hispanic community, she provides services in both English and Spanish. With five years of experience, she has worked with children, adolescents, and adults, focusing on domestic violence, substance abuse, family conflicts, co-occurring disorders, and mental health issues.
Krystine holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Florida International University and a master’s degree with dual specializations in mental health and marriage and family counseling from Barry University. She is pursuing a doctorate in clinical psychology with a concentration in health psychology from Carlos Albizu University.
Her clinical experience includes rotations at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, where she assisted children with co-occurring disorders using mindfulness exercises, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and dialectical-behavioral techniques.
Krystine believes in the power of personal growth and progress, and she is dedicated to fostering positive change in her clients’ lives.

Alyssa Mencucci – Therapist (Miami)

Alyssa is a dedicated master’s level clinician specializing in providing compassionate
therapy for adolescents and children facing severe mental health challenges. With a
deep understanding of the developmental stages and psychological needs of
adolescents and children, Alyssa offers expertise in addressing trauma-related issues,
guiding individuals through the complexities of grief, managing anxiety and depression,
navigating personality disorders, and supporting those dealing with PTSD. Alyssa uses
evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, DBT, play therapy,
and trauma-focused interventions to create a safe and nurturing environment for
healing. Alyssa believes in a client-centered approach, tailoring therapy to meet the
unique needs and circumstances of each individual. She creates a safe and nurturing
environment where adolescents and children can explore their emotions, develop
coping skills, and embark on a journey of healing and growth.

Dr. Jacqueline Pablos – Clinical Director

Vulnerability and connection are at the heart of Dr. Pablos’ therapeutic approach. As the
Clinical Director for Adolescent Wellness Academy, she aims to create a safe space for
clients to embrace their emotions and express their needs in healthier ways. Dr. Pablos
specializes in treating depression, anxiety, body image issues, bullying, eating
disorders, and self-harm behaviors using techniques like CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and
ACT.
With extensive training in hospitals and counseling centers, Dr. Pablos has a strong
background in helping teens and adults with co-occurring mental and physical health
disorders. She holds a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology, with specialized training
at institutions like Florida International University, Jackson Memorial Hospital,
Clementine Monte Nido, and Nicklaus Children’s Hospital.

Kimberly

Kimberly Carlesi – Therapist (Miami)

Kimberly, a dedicated therapist with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health
Counseling from Florida International University, specializes in supporting individuals
with eating disorders, trauma, and substance abuse. She creates a safe, nurturing
environment for her clients’ healing journeys, drawing from diverse therapeutic
modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. With a
focus on trust and collaboration, Kimberly empowers clients through personalized
interventions, fostering self-awareness and resilience.